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Arsenal are ramping up talks with the agents of RB Leipzig defender Castello Lukeba ahead of a summer transfer, according to reports in the French media.
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L’Equipe claim the Gunners have “started discussions” with the player and his representatives over the past few weeks.
The London club have also been sending scouts to keep a close eye on Lukeba, having watched him play for Leipzig against Borussia Dortmund during a 2-2 draw last month.
The France international is valued at between €60m (£52m) and €70m (£60m), so it remains to be seen whether a deal can be agreed.
What do fans need to know about Lukeba?
The 23-year-old started his career at Lyon, making his debut for the Ligue One side against Stade Brestois in August 2021.
Lukeba went on to make 68 appearances for Lyon before he was snapped up by Leipzig for €30m during the 2023 summer transfer window.
Over the past three seasons, the Frenchman has played 95 games for the Bundesliga side and won the German Super Cup.
Arsenal have a limited budget
It has been suggested that Mikel Arteta’s side may only have around £40m to spend this summer before player sales. That has reportedly led to the decision to bow out of the race to sign Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali.
If Lukeba is a genuine target, though, it may suggest that the club are having second thoughts about signing Piero Hincapie on a permanent deal. Buy the latest Arsenal kit from Classic Football Shirts here.
The Gunners have the option to buy the Ecuadorian for £45m at the end of the season, and he has performed well over the course of the campaign. However, there is a chance that the money set aside for the Bayer Leverkusen player could be spent on Lukeba instead.
Read more about the Arsenal First Team Squad for 2025/26 here